Sports betting in Ireland is legal and regulated under the Betting Act 1931, which establishes that only operators holding a valid licence may offer wagering services on sporting events. The Act sets out criminal penalties for unlicensed betting activities and assigns regulatory oversight to the Revenue Commissioners, who also collect betting duties (1).
In November 2020, the Gaming and Lotteries (Amendment) Act 2019 came into effect, modernising key aspects of Ireland’s gambling legislation. Among other measures, the Act standardised the minimum gambling age at 18 and streamlined licensing procedures for local gaming and lottery activities, further clarifying the legal framework for sports betting operators (2).
"This Act modernises the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956 and will help the better promotion of local gaming and lottery activity. These activities, held primarily for charitable and philanthropic purposes, are the lifeblood of our sporting clubs and community organisations across the country."
Today, licensed sports betting is available both in retail bookmakers and online platforms operating under Irish licences. Offshore betting sites without Irish licences remain illegal to advertise or operate within the State. The forthcoming establishment of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland promises to further consolidate licensing and consumer protections across all forms of gambling.
Source:
https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1931/act/29/enacted/en/html
https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-justice/press-releases/minister-browne-announces-the-commencement-of-the-gaming-and-lotteries-amendment-act-2019/
Last updated: 28-05-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
